James Ralph Wilson

James “Ralph” Wilson, 88, passed away at home on Sunday, October 8, 2017 surrounded by his loving family. Ralph was born December 25, 1928 in Canton, NC to James Marida and Pearl Shipman Wilson; he was one of five siblings. Ralph was very patriotic and proud to serve his country, which he did in the United States Air Force; he was a veteran of WWII. He married the love of his life, Ruth Shepard Wilson on October 13, 1949. They were married 68 years. Ralph was in the trucking business for over 35 years until he retired. After retirement, he continued working at Harris Teeter, Hunter Dairy and Avis car rental. For over 50 years, Ralph enjoyed singing with St James Male Chorus. He also loved bowling, fishing, playing pool, camping, and doing yard work. His favorite team was Atlanta Braves. Ralph was very involved with his children and so proud of them; coaching their sport teams. He was also dedicated to serving the Lord, being involved with his church and was a Sunday school teacher and deacon. Ralph is preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Mary, Guy, Blake and Hilda; and great grandchild, Lyla. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Wilson; his children, Doug (Mary) Wilson of Belmont, Harold (Lisa) Wilson of Savannah, GA, Johnny (Carole) Wilson of Charlotte, Gloria (Dale) Eramo of Indian Trail, and Darlene Wilson of Indian Trail; grandchildren, Michael, Chris (Stacey), Chad, Nick (Dawn), Kayla (Michael), Dale II, Alyssa, Deena (Travis), Dana (Robert), Jace, Adam and Rachel; great grandchildren, Shelby, Cassidee, Ava, David, Maddux, Liam, Jaycee, Pebbles and Patrick. A Memorial service will be held at Forest Lawn West Funeral Home on Saturday, October 14 at 3:30pm in the Paul Helton Chapel; Pastor Landon Keziah officiating. Visitation will take place from 2:00-3:30pm prior to the service. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn West Cemetery. Special thank you to Hospice Charlotte Region: Nurse Brittany, Chaplain JD, Lee and the whole hospice team. Special thanks to our precious new caregivers: Kathy, Ruth, Jade and Diane. And thank you to Pastor Landon Keziah for always being there for us! Offer condolences through forestlawnwest.com